Microsoft PowerToys Dev Preview v0.103.3151.0 has been released, introducing a long-requested feature that allows users to keep their screen awake while the Windows session is locked. This version also enhances the Command Palette by adding native bar charts and a rebuilt CPU card that mirrors Task Manager functionalities. Additionally, minor fixes address false shortcut warnings and improve the reliability of the Mouse Without Borders application in enterprise setups. The update is available through GitHub, but users are cautioned that it may contain bugs, and stability-focused individuals should consider waiting for the stable release
MuseScore has recently released version 4.7.7, enhancing its reputation as a free music notation program that serves as a budget-friendly alternative to established commercial software like Sibelius and Finale. Additionally, a portable version of MuseScore is available for users who prefer a mobile option.
KDE Frameworks 6.32.0 was released on November 13, 2026, and includes significant updates such as fixing a 15-year-old USB copy bug that falsely indicated successful file transfers, allowing users to unplug drives prematurely. The update also features a major rework of the Baloo search engine, enhancing its indexing and querying capabilities for improved performance. Additional improvements include hardening the KIO file-access layer and various fixes across the framework, benefiting applications like KTextEditor and enhancing graphics support. This release requires Qt 6.10.0 and is available through rolling-release distributions and the official download server
Strata 0.2.14 has been released, now utilizing self-written GPU kernels for prompt processing, which eliminates its last dependency on llama.cpp, resulting in improved performance. The update shows notable speed increases, particularly for specific prompts on AMD's Strix Halo, where processing time dropped significantly. Despite these advancements, some skeptics raise concerns about the quality of claims, inconsistencies in documentation, and a substantial percentage of downloads being attributed to the demo trailer. Strata continues to operate with a limited number of models to enhance speed and maintains a stable OpenAI-compatible serving layer while treating the runtime as interchangeable
Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) has just released version 18.1.6.3, enhancing its capabilities as a free tool designed to thoroughly remove graphics drivers from your system. This utility is particularly useful for users dealing with AMD, Nvidia, Intel, and even some Realtek audio drivers, ensuring that no remnants linger after uninstallation. This is crucial for anyone looking to switch GPU brands or clean up their system for a fresh driver installation.
Strata 0.2.14 has been released, now utilizing self-written GPU kernels for prompt processing, which eliminates its last dependency on llama.cpp, resulting in improved performance. The update shows notable speed increases, particularly for specific prompts on AMD's Strix Halo, where processing time dropped significantly. Despite these advancements, some skeptics raise concerns about the quality of claims, inconsistencies in documentation, and a substantial percentage of downloads being attributed to the demo trailer. Strata continues to operate with a limited number of models to enhance speed and maintains a stable OpenAI-compatible serving layer while treating the runtime as interchangeable
The recently released SIW (System Info) version 2026 16.16.1014i is a comprehensive system information tool designed to provide users with in-depth details about their computer's properties and settings. This tool offers an extensive range of specifications for various system components, including CPU, Network, TCP/IP, Memory, Hardware, User accounts, and Network Shares. Additionally, SIW features real-time monitoring capabilities for CPU performance, memory usage, and network traffic.
FileOptimizer version 18.10 has been released, showcasing its prowess as an advanced open-source file manager and optimizer. This tool specializes in lossless file size reduction, ensuring that users can compress their files without any quality loss. It supports a wide array of file formats, making it a versatile option for various types of data. A portable version is also available for users who prefer mobility.
Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) has just released version 18.1.6.3, enhancing its capabilities as a free tool designed to thoroughly remove graphics drivers from your system. This utility is particularly useful for users dealing with AMD, Nvidia, Intel, and even some Realtek audio drivers, ensuring that no remnants linger after uninstallation. This is crucial for anyone looking to switch GPU brands or clean up their system for a fresh driver installation.
Steam Game Idler version 6.5.1 has been released, providing users with a tool to simulate playing Steam games in order to farm trading cards without actually running the games. This app is particularly useful for those with extensive backlogs of low-cost titles, allowing users to idle multiple games simultaneously and complete card drops more efficiently. The main function of Steam Game Idler is to trick Steam into thinking that a game is actively being played, which is necessary for trading cards to drop. This eliminates the need to run resource-heavy games, thus saving energy and preventing overheating of hardware.
Ultimate Power Assistant version 1.1.34.0 has been released, providing users with an enhanced method to manage their computer's power settings and tasks efficiently. This tool allows for the customization of power settings, aiming to optimize energy consumption, extend battery life, and improve overall system performance. One of its standout features is the ability to schedule tasks and automate power-related actions, giving users more control and convenience over their computer's power management.
ASCOMP Photo Anonymizer 1.200 has been released, offering users a free and straightforward way to remove identifying data from digital and smartphone images. This software enables the deletion of metadata, GPS information, and alternate data streams, making images safer for public sharing on social media and other platforms. Retaining such information could expose users to privacy risks, as it provides potential bad actors and advertisers with sensitive details, like location data and timestamps.
XSearch 1.1.0 has been released, offering an enhanced alternative to Windows Search without the need for indexing. While indexing improves search speed and efficiency, it often involves ongoing background scanning, which some users prefer to avoid. XSearch caters to these users by allowing searches based on file name, size, date, time, and even the content of files, offering more precise filtering options than Windows Search.
TreeSheets 2.23.11 has been released, showcasing its unique capabilities as a versatile all-in-one office application that merges the functionalities of spreadsheets, mind mapping, outlining, personal information management, text editing, and small database utilities. This innovative tool aims to streamline data organization by combining the strengths of various applications into one cohesive interface.
Valve has released the SteamOS 0.5.9 and SteamVR 2.19.3 beta updates, introducing features like chroma-key Room View for the Steam Frame headset and various fixes for Linux users. The Room View feature allows users to see their real environment through parts of streamed content by utilizing a designated key color. The SteamVR update addresses several issues from the previous version, including right-eye flicker and dashboard distortion, while enhancing performance for Nvidia GPUs and adding foveated sharpening. Both updates are currently opt-in betas with no specified release date for stable versions
The Antivirus Removal Tool 2026.11 (v.1) has been released, offering users a portable solution for detecting and uninstalling multiple antivirus software from their systems. Developed by the same team behind the Windows Repair Toolbox, this tool can identify both current and previous antivirus installations and provides official specialized uninstallers. These uninstallers ensure that all remnants, including files, drivers, services, and registry records, are completely removed from the machine.
TotalAV has released version 7.1.17 of its antivirus and antimalware security suite, aimed at safeguarding PCs from various online threats, including viruses, malware, and phishing sites. The software offers a free version that functions primarily as an on-demand scanner, while the paid versions provide real-time protection, a feature that many users expect from a comprehensive antivirus solution.
A significant Linux security update has been released, with eight distributions deploying thousands of patches, notably led by SUSE's SLE 16.1 kernel, which addressed 2,819 CVEs. Ubuntu also contributed to the effort with its NVIDIA Tegra kernel notice, which cleared over 1,000 vulnerabilities, while Apache2 faced critical flaws due to a major issue with mod_http2 rated 9.8. Other distributions, including Debian, Red Hat, and Gentoo, also released extensive updates, many requiring reboots and recompilation of certain modules. System administrators are urged to prioritize patching Apache, rebooting affected kernels, and addressing critical asynchronous updates to ensure security
Core FTP LE has recently released version 2.3.1997 Beta and 2.2.1960. This free FTP client enables users to securely and efficiently manage their websites and file transfers. It supports various secure protocols such as SSL, TLS, and SFTP for safe file uploads and downloads, along with international domain capabilities.
The latest release of Boomerang for Gmail (version 1.9.10) is now available for multiple browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari, and Opera. This tool enhances email management by allowing users to schedule when their emails are sent, making it user-friendly with features like a calendar picker and a text box that can interpret phrases such as "next Friday" to specify the desired send time.
ImgDrive has recently released version 2.3.1, which enhances its functionality as a powerful tool for mounting and browsing disc image files. This software allows users to create up to seven virtual drives, providing a convenient way to access various disc image formats without the need for physical media. The user-friendly interface makes it easy to configure settings through simple checkmark selections. Upon installation, ImgDrive automatically generates a virtual drive that remains in the system tray for quick access. Users can quickly mount images by right-clicking the tray icon.
ASCOMP Cleaning Suite 5.002 has been released, offering a set of six valuable tools designed for thorough system analysis and cleaning. This suite enables users to eliminate temporary files and clean browser histories, caches, and cookies from all major internet browsers, thus optimizing system performance and enhancing user privacy.
SteamOS 3.10.0 Preview has been released, upgrading the Steam Deck to the Linux 7.3 kernel and Plasma 6.8.2, introducing enhanced gaming features like improved frame pacing and support for AMD and NVIDIA graphics technologies. This update addresses several bugs, including Bluetooth audio issues and erroneous charger warnings, but users are cautioned that it may contain unexpected bugs typical of early preview releases. The new kernel and desktop environment offer modern performance improvements and pave the way for better gaming experiences across various devices, not just the Steam Deck. Overall, this release signifies a significant step forward for SteamOS, expanding its reach beyond a single device to a broader ecosystem of compatible hardware
Rocrail has recently released Build 7550, an advanced version of its free application designed for model train enthusiasts on Windows, Linux, and Android platforms. This powerful software allows users to take complete control of their model train layouts, whether through manual operation or fully automated systems. Rocrail accommodates various operational styles, enabling mixed control where some trains are operated manually while others run in automatic mode.
Microsoft released out-of-band updates on November 13 to fix a licensing bug in Windows 10, Windows 11, and Windows Server caused by the November 2026 Patch Tuesday. The bug affected specific slmgr.vbs activation commands, leading to errors primarily impacting IT administrators using automated deployment scripts, while most already-activated devices remained unaffected. These cumulative updates are available only through the Microsoft Update Catalog and do not sync to WSUS or Configuration Manager, requiring manual deployment by administrators. The swift response from Microsoft addressed the issue within three days, though organizations utilizing KMS client keys in their scripts faced the most significant disruptions during this brief period
Cursor 3.30.14 has been released, showcasing an AI-first integrated development environment (IDE) designed to enhance the coding experience and efficiency for intermediate to professional developers. This innovative code editor, Cursor, promises to revolutionize the traditional coding routine by leveraging AI capabilities to streamline software development.
Shelly ALPM v3.3.0 has been released, featuring a redesigned user interface that aligns with the Pearl desktop environment by Seafoam Labs. The update includes rounded windows, native light/dark theming, and a revamped Updates page, but does not introduce new package-management features, focusing instead on design enhancements and bug fixes. While the project has gained a significant user base as the default graphical package manager for CachyOS, concerns have been raised regarding the stability and oversight of the code, especially with the transition to a new programming language and architecture. The project remains transparent about its limitations, including incomplete features in its new implementation of libalpm, which is important for maintaining user trust as it is now used widely across various systems
Netchat version 7.19 has been released, enhancing the convenience of chatting with other users within the same subnet. This user-friendly program features a system tray icon that allows users to initiate chats, send clipboard content, or transfer files with just a simple left or right mouse click. It also offers the option to create fixed users in different subnets, which can act as gateways to facilitate communication between multiple NetChat subnets.
Ubuntu Linux 27.04 "Tenacious T-Rex" daily builds have been launched, marking the start of public testing for the operating system's 46th release, which is projected to be stable by April 22, 2027. The daily builds currently mirror Ubuntu 26.10 "Stonking Stingray" with updates including Linux kernel 7.3 and GNOME 51, while future updates are expected to introduce newer kernels and software packages. Key features anticipated include a Rust-based time-sync client and the revival of the all-Snap Ubuntu Core Desktop, aimed at improving user experience. Interim releases like this one serve as a testing ground for innovations that will eventually be integrated into the next Long-Term Support (LTS) version, Ubuntu 28.04
Black Screen version 1.12.56.0 / 1.12 is a compact utility designed to promote eye health for users who spend long hours in front of their computers. As remote work becomes increasingly common, tools that assist in maintaining well-being during extended screen time are essential. This application offers several beneficial features, including reminders to rest your eyes and take breaks, which are crucial for maintaining focus and reducing fatigue.
ASCOMP LeakCheck 1.004 has been released as a vital tool for evaluating the security of your passwords and email addresses. This tool compares your credentials against millions of known data breaches, ensuring that users can assess their digital security conveniently from their PCs.
ASUS has introduced the latest updates to its GPU Tweak III software, with versions 2.2.2.3 and 2.4.1.0 now available. This tool is specifically designed to enhance the performance of ASUS graphics cards, allowing users to make adjustments and overclock their GPUs for improved performance in gaming and other demanding applications.
BitDefender Antivirus Free Edition 27.0.65.370 has been released, providing users with a basic, yet effective, antivirus protection option at no cost. This freeware version is derived from BitDefender Antivirus Plus and Total Security, ensuring that users receive reliable security against viruses, malware, and online threats without the burden of complex settings or resource-heavy software.
The NZXT Kraken Core 360 cooler receives high praise for its quiet operation and value at $79.99, outperforming the more expensive and novelty-focused Ocypus Omega L36 Ultra, which only managed a 7/10 rating. The Razer Soma Pro gaming chair surprises with its immersive features, including haptic motors and THX Spatial Audio, but its $999 price tag raises questions about its value compared to other options. Meanwhile, the ASUS ROG Strix B850-I Gaming Wi-Fi7 motherboard is criticized for being overpriced despite its solid performance, while both the Super Flower Leadex Titanium 1700W PSU and Sandisk Optimus GX 7100M SSD are highlighted for their efficiency and value. Overall, the reviews emphasize that practicality and efficiency are favored over novelty and high price tags
KDE Plasma 6.9 introduces several enhancements, including lazy loading for XWayland, which conserves memory and GPU resources by activating only when an X11 app is launched. This update is part of a broader initiative to transition to a Wayland-only desktop environment, following the removal of X11 session support in Plasma 6.8. Additional user-facing improvements include the ability to forget Wi-Fi networks directly from the widget, a new physical CPU core counter, and a revamped on-screen keyboard with enhanced layout options. The stable release is scheduled for February 18, 2027, with a series of planned beta releases leading up to it
Microsoft has released AttackSurfaceAnalyzer v2.3.334, a maintenance build that addresses issues with how the tool assesses Authenticode certificate expiration, specifically eliminating false positives for legitimately signed binaries. The key fix, PR #763, was notably authored and reviewed by GitHub Copilot agents, indicating a shift in Microsoft's development approach towards utilizing AI in coding. The update also includes infrastructure improvements, such as an upgraded ESRP code-signing pipeline and a transition to a .NET 10.0 runtime target. Overall, this release exemplifies how mature open-source tools can effectively enhance functionality while focusing on underlying technical improvements rather than new features
Wine Staging 11.22 has been released, featuring a significant update to vkd3d, which enhances compatibility and performance for Direct3D 12 games on Linux. This version also refreshes AF_UNIX socket support and removes the outdated ntdll-ForceBottomUpAlloc patchset. Additionally, it introduces AVX support for x86 emulation on ARM64, improving the execution of various software and games. Overall, this release serves as a maintenance update with several bug fixes, while also paving the way for the anticipated Wine 12.0 stable build expected in early 2027
Wine 11.22 was released on November 13 as a development build featuring approximately 320 changes and 34 bug fixes, with AVX support for x86 applications on ARM64 being the key highlight. This release also introduces address-space randomization, a Unicode CLDR 49 locale update, font metric fixes for Tahoma, and a complete rewrite of MSXML DTD validation. Several popular games like Guild Wars 2 and Dragon Age: Origins received fixes, although it remains a development version, indicating it is not yet stable. The community-driven effort reflects contributions from various developers, and users are encouraged to test this release against their own workloads
KDE Frameworks 6.32.0 was released on November 13, 2026, and includes significant updates such as fixing a 15-year-old USB copy bug that falsely indicated successful file transfers, allowing users to unplug drives prematurely. The update also features a major rework of the Baloo search engine, enhancing its indexing and querying capabilities for improved performance. Additional improvements include hardening the KIO file-access layer and various fixes across the framework, benefiting applications like KTextEditor and enhancing graphics support. This release requires Qt 6.10.0 and is available through rolling-release distributions and the official download server
ASCOMP has released version 1.300 of Concenturio, a user-friendly freeware reminder utility designed to help users manage both one-time tasks and recurring events effectively. This versatile program provides various features, including customizable reminder windows and the option to play audio files, allowing for a more personalized reminder experience.
Reaper is a versatile digital audio workstation (DAW) designed for recording, arranging, editing, and rendering multi-track waveform audio. The latest version, Reaper 7.86, continues to support a range of essential audio features while also being the last available freeware version.
Microsoft has released new Windows 11 Insider Preview builds across the Beta, Experimental, and Release Preview channels, with the Release Preview showcasing the most extensive features. Notable updates include a redesigned Run dialog, a revamped Windows Search experience, and a customizable File Explorer context menu, along with several enterprise and accessibility tools. The Beta and Experimental channels received lighter builds this week, with heavier updates expected next week, while the Release Preview builds are closer to the final product and will reach a wider audience. Overall, the updates signal significant improvements in functionality and accessibility, particularly for enterprise users, as Microsoft gears up for the upcoming 26H2 release
Multipass version 1.17.1 has been released, enhancing its functionality as a lightweight virtual machine (VM) manager that operates seamlessly across Linux, Windows, and macOS platforms. Designed primarily for developers, Multipass simplifies the process of launching and managing Ubuntu instances with just a single command. It leverages various virtualization technologies, including KVM for Linux, Hyper-V for Windows, and HyperKit for macOS, ensuring efficient resource usage and minimal overhead. Additionally, Multipass can utilize VirtualBox as an alternative on both Windows and macOS systems. One of its standout features is its ability to automatically fetch and update images, providing users with the latest Ubuntu environments effortlessly.
Xeoma has released updates for its surveillance software, with versions 26.11.6 Beta and 26.2.3 now available. This user-friendly tool is designed for easy auto-search and detection of web and IP cameras, allowing users to set up a comprehensive video surveillance system within minutes. Xeoma's intuitive interface makes configuring the system straightforward, resembling a child's construction set for ease of use.
The Weather Watcher Live application has released version 7.4.9, enhancing its functionality as a personal, real-time satellite weather station for Windows desktops. Users can access real-time weather conditions in their area through data sourced from WeatherBug stations and the National Weather Service (NWS) in the United States. The application automatically retrieves current weather data, including hourly and daily forecasts, severe weather alerts specifically for the US, and weather maps spanning thousands of cities globally.
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